The tranquil, forget-the-rest-of-the-world beaches are these islands' central attractions. The tranquil, forget-the-rest-of-the-world beaches are these islands' central attractions.

Charlotte Amalie

This elegant city has several interesting historical sites: the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul (terrific frescoes), Market Square, Queens Street, Blackbeard's Castle and Emancipation Garden which honors the freed slaves of 1848.

Coral World

A national park with a splendid underwater observatory; The park rangers, during our visit, were very friendly and willing to share their vast regional knowledge. ADDRESS: Route 38, north. Ph: 775-1555.

St. John's beaches are considered to be among the best in the world. Don't hurry to take in the splendor of these beautiful islands - the manner here is decidedly laid back.

North Shore Road

Driving east along this scenic route, you will come across four of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean: The Christ of the Caribbean, Hawksnest Beach, Sugarloaf Hill and Trunk Bay.

Annaberg Plantation

An 18th Century sugar plantation where harvests of sugar, molasses and rum were exported to the New World. ADDRESS: Leinster Bay off North Shore Rd.

Bordeaux Mountain/Reef Bay Trail

St. John's highest peak and most important rainforest. Be sure to enjoy a hike along Reef Bay Trail. ADDRESS: West on Route 10.

East End & Haulover Bay

Legend has it that the Arawak Indians settled this area of the island almost 2,000 years ago. ADDRESS: Northeast along route 10.

St. Croix

Christiansted

This charming Danish village, settled in the 18th Century, continues to retain plenty of its old world charms. We recommend strolling the streets as the best way to take in Christiansted's historic sites.

Fort Christiansvaern

Built in 1749 to protect the village of Christiansted, this is one of the best preserved forts in the Virgin Islands.

Estate Whim Plantation Museum

An authentic experience of life on a sugar plantation in the 1800's. The "Great House" is furnished with original antiques and period eating utensils. ADDRESS: Frederiksted Ph: 772-0598.

St. George Village Botanical Gardens

17 acres of tropical flowers and lush gardens are to be found on a 19th Century sugar plantation. ADDRESS: Kingshill Ph: 772-3874.

Frederiksted

This charming village, founded in 1751, has many interesting historical sites. A walking tour, usually taking less than two hours, is recommended.

Estate Mount Washington Plantation

This sugar plantation, buried within a dense rain forest, was discovered during an excavation. Animal powered, researchers traced the plantation's main produce to be rum and sugar. ADDRESS: West coast of the island off route 63 Ph: 772-1026.

Buck Island Reef

Reached by boat, this protected reef offers the best snorkeling at Cane Bay. Breezy and sometimes turbulent. Scenic Road West: This winding road climbs through the island's rainforest, providing spectacular views of the north and south shores.